Abbott was the practise goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs as well as a Minister. He played for the Dunnville Mudcats before his career ended during a practise session with the Hamilton Tigers when a deflected puck struck him in the eye. On November 27, 1943, the Maple Leafs were due to play the Boston Bruins where the Bruins' starting goaltender Bert Gardiner suffered from illness and couldn't play. Bruins coach Art Ross borrowed Abbott to play for the night. Toronto went on to win the game 7-3 as Abbott took 52 shots and Abbott was even knocked out for a few minutes by a shot from Babe Pratt.

Abbott was known as "The Preacher", as he became a Baptist minister after giving up hockey after his injury. He was assigned to the Toronto area during 1943 and the Leafs took him on as a practice goalie.